16Hit1600
Expression of IdeasMediumSynthesis: explaining a method

Expression of Ideas practice question

While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes: - Mary Anning collected fossils from the cliffs at Lyme Regis. - The cliffs are made of soft shale that collapses in winter storms. - Fresh collapses expose fossils that were hidden in the rock. - Anning searched the shore after storms, when the risk of further falls was greatest. - Her dog Tray was killed by a landslide in 1833.

The student wants to explain how Anning found fossils and why the method was dangerous. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

  1. A. Anning searched the shore after winter storms, when fresh collapses of the soft shale cliffs exposed fossils but further falls were most likely; a landslide killed her dog in 1833.Correct
  2. B. The cliffs at Lyme Regis are made of soft shale.
  3. C. Anning collected fossils.
  4. D. Her dog was called Tray.

Answer: A. Anning searched the shore after winter storms, when fresh collapses of the soft shale cliffs exposed fossils but further falls were most likely; a landslide killed her dog in 1833.

After storms, fresh exposures, and the risk that killed her dog.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. The cliffs at Lyme Regis are made of soft shale.
The rock, not the method.
C. Anning collected fossils.
No method, no danger.
D. Her dog was called Tray.
A name only.

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